Best 9 Safest Road Bike Helmets for 2023

While any helmet is better than no helmet, you’re undoubtedly better off looking for the safest bicycle helmet that you can get your hands on. This raises the question, “what is the safest road bike helmet”?

When looking for the best road bike helmet, safety would have to figure prominently within the criteria of what determines what is “best“.

In the United States, Canada, Europe (including the United Kingdom), and Australia, all bicycle helmets manufactured or imported must comply with that country’s Safety Standards. In the United States that would be CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) CFR 16 Part 1203.

That sure is a good thing, but is it enough? Surely some helmets must be safer and sturdier than others. So, how can you tell which helmets are the safest?

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Safest Road Bike Helmets

Since 2011, there has been independent testing of helmets conducted by Virginia Tech (Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University). In 2018, they started making the test results public, which has increased awareness and competitiveness amongst helmet manufacturers. This is a good thing as now there is more focus on safety and which helmets can best protect against head injuries rather than simply complying with CPSC Standards.

Virginia Tech’s test results give each helmet a score (the lower the score, the better the protection) which in turn equates to a Star Rating, with 5 Star being the best.

In the Virginia Tech bicycle helmet tests of May 2018 only 4 helmets out of 30 achieved a 5 Star rating.

Now compare that with the most recent round of tests in September 2020, where 104 bicycle helmets were tested and 41 achieved a 5 Star rating. That’s almost 40%. It is also noteworthy that almost 83% of the 41 top-rated helmets were MIPS equipped.
This is a huge win for the safety of cyclists everywhere.

So, no matter if you are looking for the best road bike helmet or the safest bike helmet, you’re looking in the right place.

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Listed below is a selection of 14 road bike helmets that scored a 5 Star rating in Virginia Tech’s September 2020 bicycle helmets ratings. Surprisingly, many of the safest bike helmets listed below are quite reasonably priced.

As prices can change from one day to the next, I won’t show the actual price, but I will give an indication of the price with the following:
Less than $101 = $
$102 to $199 = $$
More than $200 = $$$

If safety is what will determine your next helmet purchase, no need to go any further than the helmets listed below.

VIDEO: How To Measure For A Bike Helmet

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RELATED: How Should A Bike Helmet Fit?


1. Lazer G1 MIPS Bike Helmet

The Lazer G1, aka Lazer Genesis, is Lazer’s lightest helmet weighing in at only 230g for the Small size, and around 260g for the Medium. The G1 also boasts improved ventilation with 22 vents and interior channeling.

LAZER G1 MIPS Road Bike Helmet, Lightweight Bicycling Helmets for Adults, High Performance Cycling Protection with Ventilation, Flash Orange, Large

The Lazer G1 MIPS Bike Helmet is available on Amazon.

The Lazer G1 also comes with two sets of pads – race pads and comfort pads. The comfort pads are for regular day to day use, while the race pads are thinner and lighter for race days.

The Advanced Rollsys fit system at the top rear of the helmet makes it ponytail friendly and provides a more even fit all over rather than just pulled around to the back. With built-in MIPS brain protection system and its new sleek look and you have a helmet that looks great anywhere.

Don’t forget that Lazer also has a Crash Replacement Program, however, conditions apply.

Main features summary:

RELATED: LAZER bike helmet size chart
IMPORTANT: How to Know Your Helmet Size

Courtesy of Lazer Sport on Youtube.

RECOMMENDED: How to Clean a Bike Helmet


2. Scott ARX Plus (MIPS) Cycling Helmet

Scott makes a very nice looking helmet, and the Scott ARX Plus is no exception. Designed as a versatile all-rounder, the Scott ARX Plus is as at home on the road as it is on a rural trail.

SCOTT Arx Plus Helmet White/Black, L

The Scott ARX Plus (MIPS) Helmet is available on Amazon.

Constructed using an in-mold polycarbonate micro shell with integrated MIPS and customizable internal padding. The MRAS 3 Fit System (Micro Rotary Adjustment System 3) provides for easy sizing adjustments, and the front visor is also easily removable.

Available in 3 sizes (S, M, L) ranging from 51 – 61 cm (20″ – 24″) and several color choices, it also has great ventilation for your added comfort.

Main features summary:

  • Virginia Tech maximum 5-star safety rating
  • In-mold Polycarbonate micro shell
  • MIPS protection
  • MRAS 3 Fit System
  • CPSC, EN-1078 certified
  • Price $

RELATED: SCOTT helmet size chart
IMPORTANT: How to Know Your Helmet Size


3. Bell Formula MIPS Road Bike Helmet

The Bell Formula MIPS helmet is proof positive that quality and MIPS safety don’t have to cost the earth. At an MSRP of less than $100, the Bell Formula MIPS helmet truly represents value for money.

BELL Formula LED MIPS Adult Road Bike Helmet - Matte/Gloss Grays (Discontinued), Large (58-62 cm)

The Bell Formula MIPS Bike Helmet is available on Amazon.

The outer shell is made with the in-mold polycarbonate and EPS internal liner fused together for added strength, and MIPS brain protection system to create an even safer helmet.

It uses the Float Fit retention system for a better fit, and the sweat guide pad design inside to draw sweat away from the eyes. Nineteen vents keep the wearer’s head cool on the hottest of days.

Main features summary:

  • Virginia Tech maximum 5-star safety rating
  • Polycarbonate shell
  • 19 air vents
  • MIPS protection
  • CPSC, EN-1078 certified
  • Price $ – $$

RELATED: BELL bike helmet size chart
IMPORTANT: How to Know Your Helmet Size


4. Lazer BLADE+ MIPS Bike Helmet

In the same style and class of the Z1 helmet, the Lazer Blade+ combines great looks with high performance. An in-mold polycarbonate shell with an inner EPS layer with an under-shell finish to give a complete all-round finished look.

The Lazer Blade+ MIPS Bike Helmet is no longer available .

MIPS brain protection is built-in, along with Advanced Rollsys fit system for safety and comfort.

The fitting system is mounted to the top, rear making it ponytail friendly. Twenty-two air vents provide maximum cooling whilst commuting or weekend leisure riding. The Small size weighs in at 290g.

Don’t forget that Lazer also has a Crash Replacement Program, however, conditions apply.

Main features summary:

RELATED: LAZER bike helmet size chart
IMPORTANT: How to Know Your Helmet Size


5. Giro Aether MIPS SP Road Bike Helmet

An in-mold polycarbonate hardbody shell with a dual-density EPS liner and progressive layering technology combines with the MIPS brain protection system which is integrated between the EPS foam layers to provide maximum protection for your head.

Giro Aether MIPS Adult Road Cycling Helmet - Matte Blue (2020), Small

The Giro Aether MIPS SP Bike Helmet is available on Amazon.

The Roc Loc 5+ Air fit system features 3-way fit tuning. Internal channeling combines with 21 wind tunnel vents to provide maximum ventilation, along with the Coolfit Anti-Microbial padding.

There are two developments that make this helmet stand out above other helmets. First, is the SP. You may have noticed this helmet says ‘MIPS SP’. The SP stands for Spherical, which is what Giro has called this new system whereby the MIPS system is integrated between the EPS foam layers. Giro partnered with MIPS to develop this new approach.

Second, is what Giro is calling ARA, Aura Reinforcing Arch. This development provides enhanced strength to the helmet structure. It is a shatter-resistant and translucent AURA reinforcing arch that runs throughout the helmet.

Main features summary:

RELATED: GIRO bike helmet size chart
IMPORTANT: How to Know Your Helmet Size


6. Bell Stratus MIPS Road Bike Helmet

Lightweight and comfortable are the words being used to describe the Bell Stratus MIPS helmet. The fusion in-mold polycarbonate shell bonds the outer shell to the EPS foam liner to make a more durable helmet.

BELL Stratus Ghost MIPS Adult Road Bike Helmet - Ghost Matte/Gloss Hi-Viz Reflective (2023), Large (58-62 cm)

The Bell Stratus MIPS Bike Helmet is available on Amazon.

The Sweat Guide pad design draws sweat away from the brow keeping the rider’s eye clear. Over-brow ventilation features ports on the brow to draw airflow in and through channels for better cooling and ventilation.

The Float Fit retention system provides a personalized fit using the adjustable dial at the rear of the helmet. And, of course, the MIPS brain protection system is built-in for your protection.

Main features summary:

  • Virginia Tech maximum 5-star safety rating
  • Polycarbonate shell
  • Overbrow Ventilation with 18 Air vents
  • MIPS protection
  • CPSC, EN-1078 certified
  • Price $$

RELATED: BELL bike helmet size chart
IMPORTANT: How to Know Your Helmet Size


7. Giro Syntax MIPS Road Cycling Helmet

A tough polycarbonate outer shell fused to an inner EPS foam liner using the in-mold process all the while incorporating a staggering 25 wind tunnel air-vents creates an awesome head-hugging designed helmet.

Giro Syntax MIPS Adult Road Cycling Helmet - Matte Black/Bright Red, Medium (55-59 cm)

The Giro Syntax MIPS Bike Helmet is available on Amazon.

Of course, it has the Roc Loc® 5 Air fit system for added comfort, as well as the MIPS Brain Protection System for added safety, not to mention the CoolFit anti-microbial padding. The only thing it’s missing is you!

Main features summary:

RELATED: GIRO bike helmet size chart
IMPORTANT: How to Know Your Helmet Size


8. Smith Route MIPS Cycling Helmet

And now for something completely different. A bike helmet with an alternative type of inner padding called Koroyd. Koroyd is used as an alternative to EPS, however, the Smith Route uses koroyd only on the upper front sides of the helmet, with EPS cushioning the rest of the inner shell. This provides additional protection to the MIPS brain protection system which is also included.

Smith Route MIPS Bike Helmet (Matte Hibiscus/Black, Large)

The Smith Route MIPS Bike Helmet is available on Amazon.

The helmet fits securely with Smith’s VaporFit adjustable fit system which has a dial at the rear of the helmet. Although the helmet boasts 18 vents, it is said that the koroyd system seems to block the air-flow making it a little uncomfortable in warmer climates.

Main features summary:

  • Virginia Tech maximum 5-star safety rating
  • Polycarbonate shell
  • Zonal ventilated protection featuring Koroyd
  • MIPS protection
  • CPSC, EN-1078, AS/NZS-2063 certified
  • Price $$

RELATED: SMITH bike helmet size chart
IMPORTANT: How to Know Your Helmet Size

Courtesy of Smith – Pursue Your Thrill on Youtube.

9. Lazer Compact DLX MIPS Cycling Helmet

Described as a recreational cycling helmet, the Lazer Compact DLX MIPS is one of the most affordable cycling helmets with integrated MIPS. The in-mold polycarbonate shell with an EPS foam lining complete with MIPS weighs in at a respectable 325 grams.

LAZER Compact DLX MIPS Bike Helmet, All-Purpose Bicycle Helmet for Adults with Visor, Black Red, One Size

The Lazer Compact DLX MIPS Cycling Helmet is available on Amazon.

The Turnfit Plus retention system is unique in that it can adjust to fit around your entire head. The fit and comfort is enhanced by the adjustable head basket which can be adjusted up or down to suit. The Universal Adult size (54 – 61cm) along with the head basket and Turnfit Plus system can accommodate a variety of head shapes and sizes.

And , of course, don’t forget that Lazer also has a Crash Replacement Program, however, conditions apply.

Main features summary:

  • Virginia Tech maximum 5-star safety rating
  • Polycarbonate shell
  • 20 Cooling Vents
  • MIPS protection
  • CPSC certified
  • Price $

RELATED: LAZER helmet size chart
IMPORTANT: How to Know Your Helmet Size

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4 Comments

  1. Any idea on how soon I should replace a bike helmet? I have one about 3 years old and never been in a crash, but I have dropped it a few times and thought that I might want to start thinking about purchasing a new one to be sure it’s going to be in the best condition to help protect my head if I did manage to get in an accident. Thanks.

  2. Hi Tommy, Snell recommends replacing after 5 years. If you’ve dropped it a few times, I’d suggest you physically examine the helmet inside and out to check for any obvious damage. If there is no damage or dents in the inner foam liner it should be good. Yet, if you were starting thinking about buying a new one, then I would suggest you go that route. A helmet with MIPS is the way to go.
    Good luck.

  3. Any thoughts on Yakkay helmets? I love the look of them, and they have EN1078 and CPSC ratings, but I am wondering if they’re as safe as others. I actually had an accident while wearing one and did get a concussion but the MD’s said that the helmet did was it was supposed to do. I wonder if another helmet might have prevented the concussion.

  4. Agreed. Yakkay are really nice looking helmets. However, they seem to only have one that you would call a road bike helmet (the topic of this article). They mainly look like commuter/skate style helmets and/or womens helmets. But, yeah, very stylish.
    As you pointed out, they have EN1078 and CPSC ratings, which is the main thing as far as safety goes.
    “I wonder if another helmet might have prevented the concussion”, No, helmets don’t prevent concussion, they protect your head from injury. Search this site for the word ‘concussion’ to understand more about that.